Advanced mapping techniques in atrial fibrillation

Abstract

Catheter ablation has emerged as an excellent treatment option for atrial fibrillation especially in patients with paroxysmal AF. Several obstacles however remain regarding ablation strategies for persistent and chronic AF. In this setting, adequate success rates can only be achieved with left atrial ablation in addition to complete PV isolation. Important techniques in this regard are mapping of complex fractionated atrial electrograms as well as identification of atrial sites serving as sources of persistent AF. Other mapping techniques reviewed in this article are rapid geometry acquisition with spiral catheters and the Ensite/NAVX system, the 64-pole Constellation basket catheter as well as the MESH Mapper catheter.